September 11, 2025 Seward Folly Staff

A new public-use cabin is under construction at Meridian Lake, located about 1.5 miles from the Grayling Lake Trailhead at mile 13.2 on the Seward Highway, according to the United States Forest Service. The project features a two-story, lofted cabin measuring 16 by 20 feet, with a covered front porch and sleeping space for up to eight people.

The structure is being built with Alaskan Yellow Cedar. Amenities will include a woodstove for heating (users will be required to bring their own firewood), and a boat available for use on Meridian Lake, which is regularly stocked with fish. The cabin will be accessible year-round.

The Forest Service began planning for new cabin construction after seeking public input on preferred locations. Potential sites, including Meridian Lake, were evaluated for suitability and environmental impact before a final decision was made.

The Meridian Lake Cabin will have a similar layout to the Trail River Cabin.

Several years ago the Forest Service conducted outreach to the public and asked for input on favored cabin locations. Using that input, the Forest Service examined suitability of locations such as Meridian Lake, conducted environmental analysis, and finalized decision on where cabins should be located. The Seavey family also expressed interest in a location along the Southern Trek of the Iditarod National Historic Trail that Dan Seavey worked on for decades. The family joined the Forest Service and the National Forest Foundation for a site visit to Meridian lake and were happy with the location. 

The initiative is part of the Alaska Cabins Project, a partnership between the USDA Forest Service and the National Forest Foundation focused on building and maintaining recreation cabins in the Chugach and Tongass National Forests.

According to the Forest Service, the relatively short trail to Meridian Lake supports the project’s goal of increasing accessibility.

The cabin is expected to open to the public in fall or winter of 2025, depending on construction progress. Reservations will be available through Recreation.gov at a rate of $75 per night, plus an $8 reservation fee.